ADOT makes repairs, high-traffic I-17 bridge no longer structurally deficient

PHOENIX — A high-traffic overpass on Interstate 17 that was named the most-traveled structurally deficient bridge in Arizona has been fixed, the state department of transportation said.

In a press release, the agency said it used a new kind of technology to repair the overpass at I-17 and 19th Avenue in Phoenix. Instead of the standard method of injecting epoxy into the bridge, workers wrapped girders that had been damaged by wrecks with reinforced carbon fiber.

“We think the carbon-fiber repairs are effective, can extend the lifespan of structures and can be done in much less time than other repair methods,” ADOT state bridge engineer David Eberhart said in the release.

“We’re likely to use it again if and when repairs are needed.”

ADOT also used the technology on an overpass at I-17 and Jefferson Street that was not considered structurally deficient.

The 19th Avenue overpass was labeled the most-traveled structurally deficient bridge by the American Road & Transportation Builders Association in June.

ADOT said that ranking was incorrect, as the carbon fiber repairs were made in May.

A bridge that is considered structurally deficient is not dangerous to drive on, but has at least one key element — such as the deck — that is in poor condition.